DIY Electrical: A Dangerous Game

June 1st, 2018

While DIY projects are all the rage these days, there are some things that should be left to the professionals. Changing a bulb or a burnt socket are fairly simple tasks that you could perform safely on your own. Anything beyond that could cause irreparable damage. Here are four reasons that you should call in the experts for your electrical problems:

Property Damage

One of the most expensive results of electrical DIY is the toll that it can take on your property. Your lack of expertise makes it easy to overlook potential harmful situations. If an emergency does happen, you won’t be able to claim insurance. Any damage that you do will need to be repaired completely out of pocket.

Fail Inspections

There are some DIY electrical jobs that are illegal. This is because they need a specific expertise in order to comply with the Canadian Electrical Code. Electrical systems that do not comply because of tampering will not pass inspection. This means two things: any damage or injury that happens will hold you personally liable, and secondly, it will complicate the process of selling your home. Your home needs to pass inspection before it changes hands, so even though you may have saved a couple of bucks with your DIY, you’ll be losing money down the road.

Fire Hazard

One of the largest concerns against DIY electrical work is the potential for fires. Electrical fires are much more dangerous than other types of home fires and can cause irreparable damage, injury, and even death. If you decide to play around with your electrical system, you aren’t only putting yourself at risk, but your family as well.

Electrocution

The most obvious hazard of working with electricity is electrocution and shock. Electricians are trained over several years on how to identify and manage risk. While voltage for power outlets is typically 110 volts and will only give you a good jolt, household appliances can reach 240 volts. That kind of current is fatal.

Putting your home and your family at risk just doesn’t seem worth it. If you are experiencing electrical troubles or just need routine maintenance, contact the experts at 4-Star Electric today!